Demographics

As of 2022, New Castle County, DE, has a population of approximately 570,719. The median age is about 39 years. Females make up 52%, and males 48% of the population. Racially, the county is 61% White, 27% Black or African American, 6% Asian, and 7% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), with other groups making up about 6%. The county maintains moderate diversity across age and ethnic groups.

County Crime & Safety

New Castle County, DE, reports a crime rate of 26.65 per 1,000 residents in 2023. Property crime is more prevalent, with 5,872 cases, compared to 1,382 violent crime incidents. The county’s overall crime rate is higher than 73% of Delaware's communities but remains lower than the national average. Law enforcement actively encourages community reporting through hotlines, and clearance rates for major crimes like robbery (38%) and aggravated assault (42%) show ongoing improvement. Continued efforts in community policing contribute to safer neighborhoods.

Elections

New Castle County, Delaware, boasts over 400,000 residents and approximately 372,000 registered voters. Voters participate in federal, state, county, and municipal elections, including primaries and general elections. In 2020, 62% voted Democratic and 36% Republican in the presidential race. Nearly 170 polling locations serve the county, managed by the Department of Elections. Key issues include education funding, development, and environmental protection. The county’s administration ensures accessible voting, while the Democratic and Republican parties are most active. Third-party and unaffiliated voters comprise about 20% of registration.

Education, Employment and Housing

New Castle County, DE, has over 50 public high schools and several private schools, with a high school graduation rate of approximately 89%. Around 36% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are above the national average, and district report cards score around 7/10. The county offers robust adult education programs, including vocational training and community college courses. Specialized programs in STEM and the arts are widely available, supporting diverse student interests and career preparation.

As of 2023, New Castle County, DE, has an employment rate of approximately 63%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (15%), finance and insurance (10%), and education (9%). The predominant occupation types are management, business, science, and arts (41%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with the average commute time being 25 minutes. Roughly 60% of residents work within the county, while others commute to nearby Philadelphia and Wilmington.

New Castle County, DE, has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with a median home value around $300,000 in 2024, reflecting a 6% annual increase. Median monthly rent is approximately $1,400. Housing types range from historic rowhomes in Wilmington to suburban single-family homes in Hockessin and Newark. Popular neighborhoods include Greenville and Pike Creek. Property tax rates average 0.57% of assessed value, among the lowest in the region, making the area attractive for buyers seeking affordability and diverse housing options.